The Irish Workhouse Centre
Portumna, County Galway
About The Irish Workhouse Centre
The Irish Workhouse Centre is a thought provoking place to take the kids, that may just make them realise how lucky they are in comparison to the poor families (and children!) that ended up in one of the 163 workhouses that operated in Ireland between the early 1840s to 1920s.
The tour takes about an hour, and starts in the only fancy room to be seen in the whole house, the Boardroom, where those responsible for running the workhouse held their meetings. You will also see the waiting hall, where families who were hoping to gain admission had to stand. When you visit the girl's school, you will be given a presentation, followed by a short video, both of which will tell you about different aspects of life in the workhouse, including the fact that families were often split up on entry.
You will also see the girls' yard, women's dormitory block, matron's quarters and the laundry building. The guides are very knowledgeable and questions all welcomed at all points of the tour. There is a quiz for kids of 8 years and older.
Opening Times
1 March - 31 October 9.30am - 5.00pm
Pricing & Tickets
Adult: €7.00 Senior or student: €5.00 Family (2 adults and children): €15.00 Under 13s: €3.00 Under 7s go free.
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